Scaloni Expresses Heartache After Argentina's World Cup Final Loss to Spain
Scaloni's Emotional Response to Defeat
Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of Argentina, expressed deep sorrow following the team's loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, stating it 'hurts in the soul.' He commended his players for their resilience despite facing injuries throughout the tournament. In the post-match press conference after Argentina's narrow 1-0 defeat at MetLife Stadium, Scaloni highlighted the unexpected injuries to key players, which intensified the challenges for the defending champions. 'We faced injuries in crucial positions that we did not foresee. The physical toll was immense, and they gave their all. I am grateful to President Tapia for this opportunity. It’s a remarkable place, and forming such a group is challenging. Losing truly pains me,' Scaloni remarked, as shared on AFA's X account.
Spain Claims Victory in a Thrilling Extra-Time Match
In a gripping contest, Spain triumphed over Argentina with a 1-0 scoreline after extra time, securing their second FIFA World Cup title. The decisive goal came from substitute Ferran Torres in the 106th minute, assisted by Nico Williams' header. Despite Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making 12 saves, he could not stop Torres' shot. Spain maintained control of the game, dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, while Argentina struggled to make an impact, failing to register a single shot during regular time and playing with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in the match.
A Record-Breaking Final
Spain's victory capped off an unbeaten World Cup journey, adding the 2026 title to their UEFA Euro 2024 win. Notably, Spain's Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, both 19 years old, became the fourth and fifth teenagers to play in a FIFA World Cup final, joining the ranks of Brazil's Pele (17 in 1958), Italy's Giuseppe Bergomi (18 in 1982), and France's Kylian Mbappe (19 in 2018), all of whom emerged victorious. Additionally, Argentina's captain Lionel Messi set a new record as the oldest outfield player to participate in a FIFA World Cup final at 39 years and 25 days, surpassing Sweden's Gunnar Gren, who was 37 years and 241 days during the 1958 final. This match marked Messi's third World Cup final appearance, following his participation in 2014 and 2022, making him only the second player to achieve this feat after Brazil's Cafu, who played in the finals of 1994, 1998, and 2002.